Penang: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) of Penang detained two C-class local fishing vessels operated by Thai nationals during a two-day integrated operation in the waters off the island, which ended yesterday. Its director, Maritime Captain Muhammad Suffi Mohd Ramli, stated that the operation, jointly conducted with the Department of Fisheries, was headed by state MMEA operations deputy director Maritime Commander Mohd Hashim Mat Zain and involved both sea and land operations.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, both vessels were detained during the sea operation, and upon inspection, authorities found that they were operated by Thai nationals aged between 40 and 56. Further inspection revealed nearly three tonnes of fish in the vessels.

In the land operation, the MMEA seized 23 units of "bubu naga" around the Kuala Muda, Penaga, and Batu Kawan fishermen jetties. Captain Muhammad Suffi Mohd Ramli added that all cases will be investigated under Section 8(b) of the Fisheries Act 1985 and the Immigration Act 1959/63.